Another one gone: Departure of adviser raises doubts over Mayor's judgement

Responding to the resignation of mayoral adviser David Ross, Labour's deputy leader on the London Assembly John Biggs said: "Having now lost almost as many advisers as he's appointed, the serious questions about Boris's judgement show no signs of going away.

"There's no doubt this was a serious mistake by Mr Ross. But the greater error was from the Mayor, appointing him to such an important position within his administration. This was obviously not "just the man for the job" to ensure financial probity in the Olympics finances, as Boris claimed when he appointed his friend Mr Ross.

"The Mayor and the Conservative Party have put great faith in various city millionaire friends. Cases like this show that this faith is misplaced and their judgement lacking."

Ends.

Notes: David Ross is the sixth Boris Johnson appointee to leave City Hall under a cloud of controversy.

Tim Parker: left after falling out with the Mayor over roles and responsibilities Ray Lewis: resigned after allegations of sexual financial impropriety Nick Boles: returned to Conservative Party HQ following criticism of his handling of the Lewis resignation James McGrath: resigned after saying Caribbean Londoners could "go if they don't like it here", following Boris Johnson's election

Bob Diamond: was due to head the Mayor's Fund but decided against the idea after just a few weeks

"David Ross has done the right thing in standing down but Boris Johnson should have seen earlier that the case for him going was overwhelming.Now the Mayor must urgently replace Mr Ross with someone more appropriate on the LOCOG board so that Londoners can be re-assured that the costs of the Olympics are being closely monitored."

The thing is that the timing of this announcement makes the Standard look stupid. Within minutes of their paper hitting thire stands their lead article is out of date. They should give Boris a kicking over this.